Rachel Barsky Memorial Annual Bursary Available to a 1st Year Science Student

AMOUNT: $500

Available to one 1st year Canadian student who is enrolled in one of the following faculty/programs at UFV:

  • Faculty of Science;
  • Upgrading and University Preparation;
  • Faculty of Applied and Technical Studies;
  • Faculty of Health Sciences;
  • Faculty of Professional Studies

Applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need, have a minimum 2.0 GPA. Apply for UFV Bursaries online through myUFV.

Optional preferences from the donor include:

  • Student who is the first in their family to attend university
  • Student lives in the Fraser Valley

At age 14, Rachel Barsky slipped away from us in the night, succumbing to severe childhood asthma. An avid reader, her interests were beginning to turn to hair ribbons, nail polish, and boys. Nonetheless, her focus, disciplined study habits, and intelligence ensured her academic success, despite missing many days of school due to illness. With a penchant for languages and aspirations to become an interpreter, Rachel doubtless would have been a university scholar. A diminutive but spunky girl, she loved her dog, skiing, and ice cream that would make her ill. Rachel surrounded herself with two motifs. One came from nature; one from fable. One symbolized dreams; one denoted magic. Rachel no doubt had dreams. She could have profited from a little magic. Rachel loved rainbows and unicorns. Shy, yet passionate, Rachel possessed artistic talent, mastering a challenging musical instrument. She played the harp. Perhaps she still is.